Coral and Coral Reefs

"Coral and Coral Reefs" by Thomas Henry Huxley is a scientific exploration that uncovers the secrets of coral and coral reef formation. The book opens by differentiating types of coral, drawing clear connections between coral polyps, similar to sea anemones, and the construction of their skeletons, setting the stage to explain the fascinating formation of coral structures. Huxley then shows how coral reproduces via fission and budding. Building on these biological insights, Huxley investigates coral reef types, such as fringing and barrier reefs, while linking their creation to geological actions like sinking land and changing sea levels. Through careful observations, including analyses of coral at places like Mauritius, Huxley presents key ideas about the development of reefs over long periods, revealing fresh facts about Earth's history, and underlining the importance of coral systems.